30 Cheapest Online Computer Science Degree Programs

By: CSDH Staff
February 2023

With job prospects in tech at an all-time high, now is a good time to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science. But as college costs soar, prospective students are price-conscious when applying to school. Many have turned to online degree programs to save money.

You can find online computer science degrees for undergraduate students at reputable colleges. These are accredited colleges and universities with strong academic reputations. They offer computer science programs online that can help you step into a career in computer science or a related field. Read on for more information on where to find the cheapest online computer science degree.

Ranking Methodology

To help students with their search for an affordable computer science degree online, we found the top 30 programs and ranked them by affordability. We located over 100 computer science online programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools by choosing programs with regional accreditation. Potential employers value this type of accreditation. Graduate schools also place value on regionally accredited degrees when admitting students.

To find the most affordable computer science schools, we examined tuition costs from NCES College Navigator. We then chose the top 30 most affordable schools for our ranking. Below you will find cheap online computer science degree programs from accredited colleges and universities.

1. Fort Hays State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

fort-hays-state-university

Estimated Annual Tuition: $5,430 (in-state), $15,870 (out-of-state)

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is a public institution located between Kansas City and Denver in the city of Hays, Kansas. In the past, Fort Hays ranked as high as #15 in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of online bachelor’s degrees. FHSU has an enrollment of over 8,500 online students.

The online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Fort Hays State University teaches students the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in the technical workforce. Students learn about:

  • Algorithm design
  • Computer architecture
  • Operating systems
  • Programming languages
  • Software engineering

Students complete a total of 120 credit hours to earn the computer science bachelor’s degree. You must also maintain a 2.0 GPA in the major. After you graduate, computer science students can qualify for jobs in computer programming and database management.

2. Florida State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $5,656 (in-state), $18,786 (out-of-state)

Florida State University (FSU) is a public research university in Tallahassee, Florida. The school classifies in the category, Doctoral Universities: Highest Research Activity, by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. FSU ranks with U.S. News as the 55th best national university.

Student outcomes for the BS in Computer Science from FSU include becoming skilled at programming in assembly language, C, and C++. You can graduate with skills needed for work in computer programming and software development.

The school ranks with U.S. News and The Princeton Review. It has landed on lists like: The Best 381 Colleges, Best Southeastern Colleges, Colleges That Pay You Back, and Best Alumni Network. Florida residents receive substantial savings in annual tuition and financial aid.

Other schools to consider in Florida for an affordable online computer science bachelor’s degree include Florida International University.

3. University of Florida

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

University of Florida-Top Computer Science Bachelor's Degrees

Estimated Annual Tuition: $6,381 (in-state), $28,659 (out-of-state)

The University of Florida, or UF, is a public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. The school classifies in the category, Doctoral Universities: Highest Research Activity, by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. UF has an undergraduate enrollment of more than 35,000 students.

The University of Florida offers a BS in Computer Science online degree that teaches students about programming, data structures, operating systems, and other subjects. The program gives computer science graduates the skills they need to enter the workforce. Graduates find work in:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Computer security
  • Computer systems
  • Information systems
  • Software engineering
  • Web development

Other Florida schools for a degree in computer science include Florida International University.

4. Central Methodist University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $6,720

Founded in 1854, Central Methodist University, or CMU, is a private liberal arts school that offers online undergraduate degree programs in various majors. The school tied for 33rd in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of regional colleges in the Midwest (2023).

CMU offers both an online BA and BS degree in computer science. Students of either program become competent in at least one programming language widely used by employers. Students also get the skills needed for graduate school (master’s degree programs).

Courses explore topics such as:

  • Computer architecture
  • Database systems and SQL
  • Data structures and algorithms
  • Object oriented programming
  • Operating computer systems

Students also learn about web page design and game programming. The online courses take 8 or 16 weeks to complete.

5. Thomas Edison State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,182 (in-state), $9,342 (out-of-state)

Established in 1972, TESU helps nontraditional students earn a college education. The university caters to adult students and offers online classes in a variety of formats geared to different learning styles.

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Thomas Edison State University requires 120 semester hours to finish. Students can choose from elective courses such as:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Computer information systems
  • Computer systems
  • UNIX

Students can earn credit hours to fulfill course requirements by passing exams or submitting a relevant portfolio for assessment. Licenses, work experience, and military training can also qualify as credit to the computer science degree program.

6. California State University Monterey Bay

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,218 (in-state), $19,098 (out-of-state)

California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) ranks #22 in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings in the Regional Universities West category. It placed 7th among public schools in this category.

The bachelor’s in computer science degree from CSUMB is a cohort-based completion program. The cohort size consists of 25-35 students. The small size offers online students personalized teaching from professors and advisors.

Students join a video conference every week to interact with faculty and their peers. The curriculum includes courses in internet programming, software design, and database systems. Computer science graduates must create a portfolio and complete a capstone project. They can show these items to employers to improve job search prospects.

7. Western Governors University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,452

Western Governors University is a private university based in Salt Lake City. It uses a competency-based learning model instead of a traditional cohort-based model. This allows a student to move through their online degree at a pace that reflects their individual abilities, time, and circumstance. Major regional and national governing bodies accredit WGU.

Western Governors University offers online computer science degrees. Students can earn a BS in Computer Science. To complete the degree, students must work through a series of courses. These include:

  • Business of IT
  • Computer architecture
  • Operating systems for programmers
  • Scripting and programming

Most students at Western Governors University transfer in their general education credits, then complete the BS degree. This allows students to shorten the time it takes to earn their computer science degree.

8. SUNY Empire State College

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,630 (in-state), $17,540 (out of state)

Founded in 1971, SUNY (State University of New York System) Empire State College exists to serve working adults with nontraditional teaching methods including online courses. The school awards credits for relevant work experience to help students earn their degree faster and save money.

SUNY Empire State College offers an affordable online computer science degree. Students can earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science. This degree consists of 124 semester credit hours.

In the online computer science program, you take courses that cover topics like:

  • Database systems
  • Introduction to C++ Programming
  • Social/Professional Issues in IT/IS

You can customize your degree and take courses based on your career goals. You also get access to faculty mentors who guide you in designing a program that meets your needs. Graduates of the online computer science degree program qualify for jobs and graduate school.

9. University of Maryland Global Campus

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

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Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,704 (in-state), $12,336 (out-of-state)

University of Maryland Global Campus is one of the largest public universities in the United States. It specializes in providing online education to busy professionals.

UMGC offers online computer science degrees. Students can earn a BS in Computer Science degree.

The program consists of many programming classes that prepare students to succeed in the workplace. Computer science students also take two classes (eight semester credit hours) of calculus. Through its Center for Innovation in Learning and Student Success, UMGC is active in researching and developing new learning models and methods. These help increase engagement within the online classroom and improve student outcomes.

10. Lamar University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $8,690 (in-state), $18,482 (out-of-state)

Lamar University is a public university operated by the state of Texas. The university is in the category, Doctoral Universities: Moderate Research Activity, by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Lamar University is a good school for online computer science degrees. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree program.

The bachelor’s degree in computer science consists of 120 credit hours for graduation. It covers a wide range of topics that prepare students to enter the workforce and a computer science career. Online courses include for your computer information systems degree include:

  • Algorithms
  • Computer programming
  • Data structures
  • Information systems
  • Networking
  • Software development and engineering

Most online classes at Lamar University follow an accelerated, eight-week format, but others stick to a traditional 15-week semester term.

11. Troy University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $9,312 (in-state), $18,624 (out-of-state)

Troy University is a public university founded in 1887 and located in Troy, Alabama. The school ranks #44 in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of regional universities in the South. It also ranks #47 in best value schools thanks to its generous financial aid awards.

For students in search of an online computer science degree cheap, find Troy University has options. The school offers an online Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science degree.

The bachelor’s degree program teaches students how to develop software. This includes games, smartphone apps, and web-based programs. The program also gives you the skills you need to succeed in different computer science jobs, such as in the role of computer programmer and systems analyst.

In the computer science program, students learn about data structures and databases. The computer science programs also cover operating systems. Students can choose elective courses in many different areas. These include computer security and business systems programming.

12. Arizona State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

A logo of ASU for our ranking of 30 cheapest online computer programs

Estimated Annual Tuition: $11,348 (in-state), $29,438 (out-of-state)

Arizona State University is a public universities located in Tempe, Arizona. U.S. News and Report ranks the school #121 in best national universities. It also ranks #56 in top public schools and #1 in most innovative schools.

Arizona State University is a good school for a cheap computer science degree online. The public university offers a bachelor’s degree in computer science. To cut tuition costs, in-state students can receive generous financial aid awards. But you must qualify for certain financial aid packages.

The computer science program consists of 120 total credit hours. Students complete 41 classes for the bachelor’s degree. Computer science courses cover topics like:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Computer ethics
  • Database systems
  • Information systems

Students also take advanced mathematics courses that help them improve their problem solving skills. When you graduate, you’re ready for a career as a software developer or another IT role. You can also qualify for a master’s degree program.

13. Trident University International

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $9,240

Trident University International (TUI) is a 100% online private university focused on serving adult students. More than 90% of its undergraduate students are older than 24 years. It offers affordable online computer science degrees.

Trident’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is one of the cheapest computer science degree programs on our list. The online program is for working students who want a flexible way to learn.

The affordable online computer science program demands 120 credit hours for completion. The programs teaches students through case studies based on real-life scenarios. Computer science classes cover topics in computer system architecture and human-computer interaction. You also study advanced programming.

Students can choose to add a cybersecurity concentration to their program by taking three four-credit courses. These courses cover topics such as cryptography, network security, and wireless hybrid networks. TUI holds membership in Cyber Watch West, a government program designed to improve the state of cybersecurity.

14. Franklin University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $9,577

Founded in 1902, Franklin University is a private university located in Columbus, Ohio. The school focuses on providing higher education programs to adult students. The average age of a Franklin student is in the early 30s, and all of the school’s degree programs are online.

Looking for online and accredited computer science programs? Franklin University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree.

The program prepares students for career success in jobs like a computer programmer or as information research scientists. Students who want to learn programming languages can do so in the program. You also learn about different theories behind foundational computer science concepts. These concepts include:

  • Algorithms
  • Object-oriented design
  • Testing

Courses are flexible. Students can take classes that last 6, 12, or 15 weeks. There are also multiple start dates available. To offset costs and make the computer science programs more affordable, the school offers generous financial aid packages to qualifying students.

15. Dakota State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

dakota-state-university

Estimated Annual Tuition: $9,633 (in-state), $12,735 (out-of-state)

In the category Regional Universities Midwest, Dakota State University (DSU) ranks #85 by U.S. News and World Report. Among public institutions in the category, DSU ranks #24. DSU is a public university that accepts students with transfer credits.

DSU offers computer science programs online. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science degree.

In the online program, students take classes that prepare them for careers in IT and computer science, such as information research scientists and analyst roles. All professors in the program hold PhDs in computer science. Many DSU faculty bring a unique collaboration between online and on-campus students by assigning them projects that they work on together. Upon graduation, students enter the workforce or go to graduate school to earn a master’s degree.

16. Old Dominion University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $10,800 (in-state), $30,960 (out-of-state)

Old Dominion University is a public university in Norfolk, Virginia. It ranks #299 with U.S. News and World Report in the category best national universities. The school has graduated over 14,000 online students since it started offering online programs.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Old Dominion University is an affordable degree program. It emphasizes math and science to produce graduates that will make a strong impact in the workplace.

Students at the public university can take courses in computer science that lead to their degree. Courses cover topics in database development and network administration. Like many computer science programs, courses also prepare students for graduate school.

The ODU computer science major can qualify for job titles like software developer and web development managers. ODU is a good place to earn a computer science degree online cheap. For those conducting a school search, the program also accepts transfer credits.

17. Rasmussen University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $10,935

Rasmussen College is a private for-profit school that has received for profit school accreditation. It is the first institution in higher education to become a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC). Under this corporate status, Rasmussen provides services that benefit the local communities where campuses exist.

Our school search for affordable computer science programs online includes Rasmussen University. The school offers a CS Bachelor of Science.

This accelerated program accepts individuals with a high school diploma and accredited associate’s degree. Once accepted, the program prepares you for computer science careers. Students take classes in business intelligence, cloud computing, and web analytics. You can also specialize in Apple iOS or Universal Windows app development. Graduates from Rasmussen’s School of Technology have worked at reputable companies including Best Buy, Microsoft, Target Corporation, and Verizon Wireless.

18. University of Illinois at Springfield

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $11,911 (in-state), $21,526 (out-of-state)

The University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS) is a public liberal arts school. The university tied for 20th place in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of regional universities in the Midwest. Among best value schools in that category, UIS received a 6th place ranking.

University of Illinois offers a computer programming degree for students interested in learning online. Students can earn a BS in CS degree by completing 120 total credit hours.

Entry into the program requires two semesters of Java programming and a semester of calculus, discrete or finite math, and statistics. UIS offers online courses that meet these requirements for applicants that need them. Major courses cover relevant topics for the workplace including algorithms and computer organization. Students also take software engineering and other relevant courses.

As far as computer science programs go, UIS offers one of the most affordable options. Financial aid awards for qualifying students help decrease the computer science degree online cost.

19. Oregon State University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $12,188

Oregon State University (OSU) is a public research university in Corvallis, Oregon. It classifies with the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as a doctoral university with the highest level of research activity. The school has an enrollment of over 25,000 undergraduates.

OSU is a good school for online computer science degrees. It offers a Bachelor of Science in CS for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. The program prepares students for careers in tech and the computer world.

The affordable online computer science program covers a wide range of topics. Your online courses include:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Data structures
  • Software engineering

You must complete 60 credit hours of major classes to graduate with the online degree.

20. Park University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $12,280

Established in 1875, Park University is a private, nonprofit school that uses interactive courses to deliver its online programs. U.S. News and World Report ranks Park #127-#166 in best Midwest universities and #150 in top performers on social mobility.

Park is an affordable school for a CS degree. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in Information and CS.

Students learn about discrete math, programming fundamentals and concepts, and managing information systems in the core classes. The following specialty areas are available for study:

  • Data management
  • Networking and security
  • Software engineering

These concentrations take between 23 to 28 credit hours to complete. To graduate from the program, students must complete at least 120 total semester hours.

21. Baker College

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

baker-college

Estimated Annual Tuition: $12,420

Baker College is the largest not-for-profit college in Michigan and one of the largest private colleges in the nation with close to 35,000 students. It is a vocational school, and its administrators believe getting a degree in computer science prepares students for a great career.

The BS in CS program from Baker College requires 195 quarter credit hours to complete. The major prepares students for careers in IT and the tech industry.

The major covers courses in many programming languages, including SQL, C++, and C#. Students also learn about unit testing, microprocessor electronics, and programming for mobile devices.

Baker has an automatic acceptance policy for admissions. This means students get admitted into the program if they have a high school diploma or GED certificate. It has one of the most affordable computer science degrees on our list.

22. National University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $13,320

National University is a private, nonprofit university with headquarters in La Jolla, California. The university has several regional campuses throughout California, one campus in Nevada, and multiple locations in San Diego County. National enrolls 30,000 students yearly, and more than 150,000 alumni have graduated from its programs.

National University offers a Bachelor of Science in CS that requires 180 quarter credit hours to complete. It accepts transfer students and offers one of the most affordable program on our list.

Of the 180 credit hours required, 70.5 of them must come from the school to graduate. But you can still transfer in a large number of credits. The curriculum covers topics relevant to the tech industry. Courses include:

  • Database design
  • Discrete structures
  • Programming languages

Each courses prepares students for employment or to enter a master’s degree program.

23. Southern New Hampshire University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $15,380

With over 60,000 online learners, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has one of the largest distance learning enrollments in the nation. SNHU is a private, nonprofit institution. U.S. News & World Report ranks SNHU #2 in most innovative schools.

SNHU is a great school for a computer science degree program. You can earn a bachelor’s degree in computers.

Students in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program learn how to use in-demand programming languages. They study Python and C++ to create effective software. They also gain exposure to real-world operating systems and development platforms to prepare them for career success.

With short eight-week terms, SNHU provides flexible course scheduling. You can start the program right away without waiting months before attending your first course.

24. Regent University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $18,820

Regent University is a private, nonprofit, Christian institution in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The school’s online bachelor’s degrees received a top 40 ranking from U.S. News and World Report in recent years.

Regent University’s Bachelor of Science in CS is an affordable program. It teaches students how to solve tough computer problems like those they may encounter in the workplace.

The major consists of eight courses that prepare you for careers in computers. Courses cover topics like:

  • Computer Architecture
  • Ethics for Computer Science
  • Mobile and Smart Computing
  • Parallel and Distributive Programming

Students must take three calculus courses to fulfill the math requirements. Most of the courses offered run eight weeks. The accelerate pace helps students earn their degree in record time.

25. Mercy College

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $20,734

Once affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, Mercy College is a nonsectarian, nonprofit, private, liberal arts institution in the state of New York. The college has campuses in Dobbs Ferry (main campus), Manhattan, Bronx, and Yorktown Heights. Mercy offers 40 online programs.

Mercy College offers an affordable online computer science program. Students can earn an online Bachelor of Science in CS.

The program in computer science teaches students how to program in Java and C++. Potential employers value these two programming languages. Students also gain experience in team settings by working with their peers for a whole semester to complete a software project.

Coursework requirements for the major include two classes in calculus, two in algorithms, two in software engineering, and an artificial intelligence class. There are 120 total credit hours required for graduation.

26. Concordia University, St. Paul

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $23,900

Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP) is a private liberal arts institution. The school is a member of the Concordia University System and affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, a Christian denomination. CSP tied for 66th in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of regional universities in the Midwest.

Concordia is an affordable college for a computer science degree. It offers a Bachelor of Science in CS online.

The 55-credit hour major prepares students for careers in the computer and tech industry. The program teaches students applicable skills in different relevant topics. You take courses in:

  • Database design
  • Object-oriented programming
  • Server-side development
  • Web design

Courses last for seven weeks and move at a rigorous pace. There are 128 credits required to complete the degree.

27. Limestone University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $26,300

Founded in 1845, Limestone University is a private liberal arts university in Gaffney, South Carolina. The school is a Christian non-denominational institution with a total enrollment of over 3,500 students. The school ranks #45 in best regional colleges in the South by U.S. News.

Limestone University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science through its Extended Campus. The program is affordable and open to transfer students. It prepares students for careers in the industry.

The degree program covers a number of courses that are relevant to the tech world. Students take courses in:

  • Imperative programming
  • Microcomputer applications
  • Networking fundamentals

Students choose from four concentrations: Computer and Information System Security, Information Technology, Programming, and Web Development and Database. A computer science concentration helps you tailor your degree toward your career goals.

Courses run in eight-week terms with six terms in a year. Students can enroll in two courses each term to earn 36 semester credit hours for that year.

28. Lakeland University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $31,316

Lakeland University is a private liberal arts university related to the United Church of Christ. Located in Plymouth, Wisconsin, the school has about 3,500 students including 2,600 nontraditional students that take courses at night, on the weekend, and/or online.

Lakeland University offers degrees in computers online. You can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree.

Students in the program choose from three areas of emphasis or concentrations. These include:

  • Computer science
  • Information systems
  • Software design

The CS concentration consists of 27-28 hours, all of which are elective classes. The other two concentrations include nine semester hours of electives. Students take core courses that cover relevant topics such as database fundamentals and database management. You also study computer programming and learn about data structures. You must complete a total of 120 semester credits to graduate.

29. Lewis University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $35,472

Located in Romeoville, Illinois, Lewis University is a private university affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. The school tied for 22nd place in U.S. News and World Report’s ranking of regional universities in the Midwest. U.S. News also ranks it as the 39th best value school.

Lewis University offers an accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. The program teaches relevant skills needed for computer science careers.

Online learning courses run for eight weeks and move at a fast pace. Classes are small to foster an intimate learning environment. CS majors take courses in writing software in popular programming languages (such as JavaScript, Ruby, and Python). They also study the design of secure networks. You can study artificial intelligence in applications and other interesting topics.

Students with prior programming experience can qualify for college credit through an evaluation process called Prior Learning Assessment.

30. Regis University

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Program Website

Estimated Annual Tuition: $39,610

Regis University is a private, nonprofit school located in Denver, Colorado. The university is affiliated with the Jesuit religion order of the Roman Catholic church.

Regis University offers online computer science degrees. You can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree that is accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). ABET is one of most reputable accreditors of programs in computing and engineering.

In this program, you take courses relevant to the industry. Your courses cover topics like programming languages and principles. You also study computation theory and software engineering. When you graduate, you’re prepared to go to work or graduate school.

This concludes our article on most affordable online computer science degree schools.

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